Evaluation of the structural behaviour of beam-beam connection systems using compressed wood dowels and plates

Abstract

To support the transition to a bio-based society, it is preferable to substitute metallic fasteners and adhesives in timber construction with an eco-friendly alternative. Recent studies have identified compressed wood dowels and plates as a possible substitute for metallic fasteners in contemporary and mainstream applications. In this study, a spliced beam-beam connection system using compressed wood dowels and slotted in compressed wood plates was examined under four-point bending. The study has considered specimens with compressed wood dowels of two different diameters, 10 mm and 15 mm. The load carrying capacity of connection using compressed wood dowels and plates were compared to connections utilising steel dowels and plates of equivalent capacity. Typical failure modes, moment resistance and bending stiffness of both connection systems are evaluated on the basis of the experimental results.